Vodafone Fijiana 15s coach Ioan Cunningham is taking the time before their significant match against the Wallaroos to understand and connect with his squad in preparation for the Women’s Rugby World Cup later this year. Cunningham, a former coach of the Wales Women’s team, expressed his eagerness to meet the athletes and establish a strong foundation as they embark on a pivotal year for women’s rugby.
Though he has not finalized his 32-player roster, a preliminary schedule is in the works, and the Fijiana will hold their first training camp later this month. “The first goal is to achieve clarity on our game strategy. Given that there’s limited time to prepare, I aim to help the players understand my coaching methods and expectations,” stated Cunningham.
He is particularly drawn to the role by the evident passion and talent for rugby within Fiji, expressing excitement about working alongside the skilled athletes during the lead-up to the World Cup. The clash against the Wallaroos is set for April 3, with the specific venue still to be announced.
This match will be crucial as it serves as a key step for the Fijiana, who will face tough competition at the World Cup scheduled from August 22 to September 27 in England, where they will play against teams such as Canada, Scotland, and Wales. The focus on talent identification and the engagement of players aligns with Cunningham’s plans to blend Fiji’s dynamic flair with more structured gameplay.
The emphasis Cunningham places on both nurturing talent and developing team cohesion could pave the way for a successful campaign. With a backdrop of renewed optimism and enthusiasm, the Fijiana XV anticipates showcasing their potential on an international platform, representing not just their team but the broader aspirations of women’s rugby in Fiji.
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